Partners: meaning, definitions and examples

This is often used in a business or professional setting to describe two or more people who are working together towards a common goal, often sharing profits and responsibilities.

• They decided to become business partners and open a restaurant.
• Law firms often have several partners who manage the firm's operations.

This word is typically used in a professional setting to describe someone who is connected with another person or organization, often at a lower rank or level.

• He is an associate at the marketing firm.
• She joined the company as an associate but quickly moved up the ranks.

This term is used to describe someone who works together with another person or group, especially in an intellectual or creative endeavor. It can sometimes have a negative connotation when used in a political or wartime context.

• The scientists were frequent collaborators on research projects.
• During the war, some were accused of being collaborators with the enemy.

This is more personal and social, often describing someone who spends a lot of time with another person, providing friendship and company.

• She was his constant companion during their travels.
• Dogs are known to be great companions to humans.

Used in both professional and personal settings to describe two or more individuals working together towards a common goal or sharing responsibilities.

• They became business partners and started a successful tech company.
• As hiking partners, they always supported each other during challenging trails.

Refers specifically to a husband or wife in a marital relationship.

• Her spouse is very supportive of her career.
• As a married couple, the spouses share household responsibilities.

Informal term commonly used to describe a friend or buddy, especially among younger people and in Australian and British English.

• He's been my best mate since we were kids.
• Let's grab a drink, mate.

Generally used to describe a person or pet that provides friendship and company, often emphasizing emotional support.

• During her travels, she found a loyal companion in her dog.
• He was her constant companion through thick and thin.

Used to describe individuals or groups that work together towards a common goal. Often implies a formal or long-term relationship.

• They are business partners.
• Our company and theirs are strategic partners.

Ideal for situations where people or groups work together on a project or task. This term is often used in creative, academic, or professional settings.

• Let's collaborate on this research paper.
• The two artists decided to collaborate on a new album.

Commonly used when individuals or small groups come together for a specific project or task. It often implies a short-term or informal collaboration.

• Let's team up for the group presentation.
• They decided to team up to organize the charity event.

Typically used when individuals or groups combine efforts to achieve a significant, often challenging goal. This phrase suggests a strong combined effort.

• The two companies decided to join forces to combat climate change.
• In order to win the championship, the best players from each team had to join forces.